Pet spray training system

ABSTRACT

An animal behavior modification device is provided. The device includes a sound, vibration or motion sensor that is configured to generate electrical signals in response to an occurrence. The device may include a filter, which is tuned to recognize a dog barking event, and generate an electrical signal in response to recognizing an input signal indicative of a dog&#39;s bark. The device further includes a canister that holds a deterrent fluid under pressure. The device additionally comprises a motor module configured to rotate a shaft in response to the electrical signal from the filter. The canister has a spray nozzle for releasing fluid that affects the dog&#39;s senses. In response to rotating the shaft, the spray nozzle is depressed. A method of modifying the behavior of an animal using the device is also provided herein.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

THE NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This section is intended to introduce various aspects of the art, whichmay be associated with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.This discussion is believed to assist in providing a framework tofacilitate a better understanding of particular aspects of the presentdisclosure. Accordingly, it should be understood that this sectionshould be read in this light, and not necessarily as admissions of priorart.

Field of the Invention

The present inventive concept relates to the field of pet training. Moreparticularly, the invention relates to an improved portable spray deviceused as an aversive for animal behavior modification, such ascontrolling the barking of a pet dog.

Technology in the Field of the Invention

Many people who live in populated areas enjoy the companionship of dogs.Such individuals frequently live in apartment complexes, condominiumcomplexes, garden home communities, zero lot line homes, lofts or highrise developments. In these instances, residents are living in closeproximity to one another. Such close living arrangements may provide afeeling of community, may provide a convenient location for work, mayprovide affordable housing, may provide for a low-maintenance lifestyle,or may provide a lifestyle deemed to be vibrant or culturallystimulating.

At the same time, dog owners living in these circumstances face thechallenge of controlling excessive or unwanted barking from a pet dog.In this respect, dogs have a habit of barking at strange noises, eitheras a protective habit or out of unwarranted fear or territorialism. Dogsalso bark at other pets and at people. Such barking is a nuisance toneighbors living close by, and even to the dog owners themselves. Thiscan produce conflicts between neighbors, and even litigation wherebarking is deemed to be an ongoing nuisance.

Various techniques have been developed to control the barking of a dog.First, barking can be controlled by the surgical removal of the larynx.However, this solution is usually unacceptable to pet owners asunnecessarily cruel and expensive. Second, standard obedience techniquescan be used to train a dog not to bark, but this is time consuming andoften requires the presence of the owner to correct the dog. If theowner is absent from the home for long periods of time, such as at work,the dog may learn to refrain from barking only when the owner ispresent, remaining a nuisance while the owner is away. Third, a muzzlecan be utilized to prevent a dog from barking. However, the muzzle mustbe periodically removed to allow the dog to eat or drink which restoresthe need for supervision. Finally, remote and automatic systems usingvarious trigger mechanisms (primarily electrical stimuli) have beendeveloped to control the barking of a dog. However, not every pet ownerwants to apply electrodes to the throat of a pet, particularly when thepet is small or frail.

One technique that has proved successful and that has been deemedparticularly humane is the use of a spray canister. U.S. Pat. No.4,627,385 entitled “Bark Restraining Device for Dogs” discloses a collarunit having an electronic circuit. The circuit includes a microphonewith a filter, such as the filter shown in U.S. Pat. No. 8,714,113. Sucha filter is sensitive to frequencies that correspond to those of thebark of a dog. When barking is sensed, the circuit actuates a valve thatis associated with a pressurized tank of compressed gas or other fluid.When activated, the valve releases a spray of the fluid from a tank inthe region of the head of the dog. The substance is designed to affectthe senses of the dog, particularly the sense of smell. The '113 patentis incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

In one aspect of the '385 patent, the electronic circuit is responsiveto a signal from a remote transmitter carried by the pet owner or atrainer. The remote transmitter is shown in FIG. 7 of the '385 patent.The transmitter permits the owner or trainer to remotely actuate therelease of the spray as part of the training of the dog. U.S. Pat. No.4,627,385 is also incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Since the '385 patent issued in 1986, a variety of “spray trainers” havebeen placed on the market. Some spray trainers are associated with a dogcollar, while others (typically directed towards cats) representfree-standing spray canisters equipped with motion sensors. In any ofthese instances, pressurized canisters having a solenoid releasemechanism have been used. The canisters are filled in a “clean room,”under pressure, at the factory before packaging for sale.

The currently-available collar-mounted, pressurized spray canistersutilize a refill valve, a separate spray valve and a solenoid releasingmechanism. These canisters can be difficult or complex to produce inhigh volume.

Accordingly, a need exists for an improved spray mechanism used fortraining pets that utilizes easily replaceable pressurized canisters. Aneed further exists for a spray training system that does not require arefillable tank or a pump mechanism for an unpressurized canister.Further, a need exists for a spray training mechanism that utilizes asmall electrical motor that releases pressurized fluid rather than apump that acts on an unpressurized container, which is prone to leakage.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An animal behavior modification device is first provided herein. In oneembodiment, the animal behavior modification device includes a sensor(such as a microphone). The sensor is configured to receive an input(such as sound frequencies), and to generate electrical signals inresponse.

The device also includes a filter. The filter is tuned to recognizeinput signals received by and emitted in proximity to the sensor. Thefilter is part of circuitry that generates an electrical behaviormodification signal in response to recognizing signal inputcharacteristic of the bark of a dog.

The device further includes a first canister. The first canister holds abark deterrent fluid at positive pressure. Preferably, the barkdeterrent fluid comprises a solution that stimulates one or more sensesof a dog. For example, the solution may be sensed by the dog's sense ofsmell, hearing or touch. In one aspect, the stimulation is an offensiveor “aversive” stimulation. In one aspect, the fluid is an irritant to amembrane of a dog.

The device additionally comprises a motor module. The motor module isconfigured to rotate a shaft for a designated period of time in responseto conditioned electrical signals from the filter indicative of the barkof a dog.

In one embodiment, the device includes an elongated motor arm. In thisembodiment, the device includes a gear operatively connected to theshaft and configured to move the elongated motor arm linearly inresponse to rotation of the shaft. Preferably, the gear is part of agear assembly having at least two gears, and possibly three or fourgears of progressive size, with one of the gears engaging the elongatedmotor arm. In this instance, the elongated motor arm will comprise teeththat mate with teeth of the engaging gear.

Still further, the device comprises a spray nozzle. The spray nozzle isassociated with the first canister.

The device additionally includes an actuation arm. The actuation arm ispivotally connected to the elongated motor arm and is configured todepress the spray nozzle when the electrical motor is actuated to movethe elongated motor arm in a first linear direction. This serves torelease a short stream of bark deterrent fluid. The actuation arm isfurther configured to disengage the spray nozzle when the electricalmotor remains actuated to move the motor arm in a second opposite lineardirection, thereby closing off the release of bark deterrent fluid.

In another embodiment, the device include a cam. The cam defines a camsurface that acts on an actuation arm. In this embodiment, the deviceagain includes a gear operatively connected to the shaft. However, inthis instance the gear (or gear assembly) rotates the cam and associatedcam surface in order to momentarily depress the spray nozzle. In thisarrangement, continued actuation of the electrical motor causes the camto continue rotating, which in turn cyclically depresses and releasesthe spray nozzle. Preferably, only one spray cycle is provided.

The device also comprises a battery. The battery is arranged to providepower to the electrical motor module and to any other electricalcomponents, such as an optional wireless receiver or programmable logiccontroller.

Preferably, the animal behavior modification device also includes ahousing. The housing is configured to hold at least the sensor, thefilter, the motor module and the battery. The housing includes aconnector, such as a slot or opposing loops, for connecting the housingto the collar of a dog.

In one embodiment, the housing includes a spray opening through whichthe deterrent fluid is emitted under pressure when the actuation armengages the spray nozzle. In addition, the housing includes a slot forreceiving the first canister. The spray nozzle aligns with the sprayopening when the canister is placed in the slot. The housing may furthercomprise an access cover. The access cover is configured to expose theslot when the cover is pivotally opened. This enables removal andreplacement of the first canister, as needed.

In one embodiment, the device communicates with a remote transmitter.The transmitter is configured to send a wireless bark deterrent signalin response to manual actuation, such as by a pet owner pushing abutton. The device also includes a receiver located on the collar, suchas on the housing. The receiver is configured to receive the barkdeterrent signal wirelessly, and in response generate the electricalbehavior modification signal. The electrical motor is configured torotate the shaft for the designated period of time in response to theelectrical behavioral modification signal from the receiver. Thisultimately causes a stream of the bark deterrent fluid to be releasedthrough the spray nozzle. In this way, the device can also be remotelyoperated by a pet owner.

In another embodiment, the device is part of a system that includes aremote transmitter that is part of a stationary unit. The transmitter isconfigured to send a wireless bark deterrent signal to the receiver onthe collar in response to on-board bark sensing and filteringelectronics on a stationary bark-sensing and transmitting device. Thedevice also includes a receiver co-located on the collar or otherwisealong the housing. The receiver is configured to receive the barkdeterrent signal as transmitted by the remote, stationary bark-sensingdevice, and in response, generate an electrical behavior modificationsignal. The electrical motor is configured to rotate the shaft andultimately cause the actuation arm to engage the spray nozzle of thefirst canister in response to the electrical behavior modificationsignal delivered by the receiver (or related processor). Ultimately,this causes a stream of the bark deterrent fluid to be released throughthe spray nozzle along the collar. In this way, the device candiscourage barking in a designated location such as a nursery.

In yet another embodiment, the device is generally free-standing, thatis, no portion resides along a collar, and includes a sensor, a filter,an electric motor module and a fluid canister. The sensor and filter areconfigured to receive input signals (such as sound frequencies) and togenerate electrical signals in response to recognizing input signalscharacteristic of the bark of a dog. The electrical motor module isconfigured to cause fluid to be emitted from the canister in response tothe electrical signal from the sensor/filter, and to cause a stream offluid to be released upon the recognition of a bark. In this way, thedevice is free-standing and can be moved to a room to discourage barkingin the room where the bark deterrent device is located.

In yet another embodiment, the system is again free-standing andportable, but this time includes a motion sensor along with the filter,electric motor module and the fluid canister. The motion sensor isconfigured to receive motion signals and to generate electrical signalsin response to sensing motion characteristic of the movement of a pet.The electrical motor is configured to rotate a gear in response to theelectrical signal from the motion sensor, and to ultimately cause astream of deterrent fluid to be released upon the recognition of petmovement in an area. In this way, the device can discourage the presenceof a pet in a designated location where the system is placed, such as akitchen or nursery or office.

In still another embodiment, the device comprises a second canistercontaining a behavior reinforcement fluid, wherein the behaviorreinforcement fluid comprises a solution that is pleasing to a dog'ssense of smell to provide positive reinforcement. A remote transmitteris again offered, which is configured to send a behavior reinforcementsignal in response to manual actuation to a receiver. The receiver islocated along a collar, such as within a housing. The electrical motoris configured to rotate a shaft, which causes a spray nozzle to bedepressed, which then causes fluid from the second canister to bereleased in response to the electrical behavior modification signal fromthe receiver.

In another embodiment, the device further comprises a tone generationelement that can be used independently or in concert with either thedeterrent fluid or the reinforcement fluid. The generated tone may be adeterrent tone or a reinforcement tone, used with the deterrent fluid orthe reinforcement fluid, respectively. Alternatively, the device furthercomprises a vibratory element such as a micro-motor that deliversvibration to the dog as a deterrent signal.

A method for modifying the behavior of an animal is also providedherein. The method employs the animal behavior modification devicesdescribed above, in any of their various embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that the manner in which the present inventions can be betterunderstood, certain illustrations, charts and/or flow charts areappended hereto. It is to be noted, however, that the drawingsillustrate only selected embodiments of the inventions and are thereforenot to be considered limiting of scope, for the inventions may admit toother equally effective embodiments and applications.

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of the animal behavior modification device ofthe present invention, in one embodiment.

FIG. 2A is a schematic view of a single stroke pet spray device thatutilizes an electric motor module to turn a shaft, in one embodiment.Rotation of the shaft ultimately causes a spray nozzle associated with acanister to be depressed, thereby releasing a spray of behaviormodification fluid. In this view, a canister having a cylindricalconfiguration is used.

FIG. 2B is another schematic view of a single stroke pet spray devicethat utilizes an electrical motor module to turn a shaft, in a secondembodiment. Rotation of the shaft again ultimately causes a spray nozzleassociated with a canister to be depressed, thereby releasing a spray ofbehavior modification fluid. In this view, the canister has arectangular prism configuration.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an illustrative housing as may be usedto hold the devices of either FIG. 2A or FIG. 2B.

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the housing of FIG. 3A, wherein anaccess cover is opened. In addition, a portion of the front panel of thehousing has been lifted off.

FIG. 3C is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the housing ofFIG. 3A. In this view, an access cover is shown in an opened position.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the housing of FIG. 3A, wherein a frontpanel has been removed to expose a pet spray training system of thepresent invention, in a first embodiment. The system includes anelectric motor module, a gear assembly, an elongated motor arm and anactuation arm. The canister has been removed from the slot and is notvisible.

FIG. 4B is an enlarged perspective view of the electric motor module ofthe pet spray training system of FIG. 4A, in one embodiment. Theelectric motor module, elongated motor arm and gear assembly are visibleas well.

FIG. 4C is another perspective view of the housing of FIG. 3A. Here, thehousing is cut-away, exposing the pet spray training system of FIGS. 4Aand 4B.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the housing of FIG. 3A, wherein a frontpanel has again been removed to expose a pet spray training system ofthe present invention, but in a second embodiment. The system includesan electric motor module, a gear assembly, a cam and an actuation arm. Acanister is also visible here.

FIG. 5B is an enlarged perspective view of the electric motor module ofFIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C is another enlarged perspective view of the electric motormodule of FIG. 5A. Here, a portion of the housing of the module isremoved, exposing the internal gears of the gear assembly.

FIG. 5D is a cross-sectional view of the electric motor module of FIG.5A. Selected gears are also seen in cross-section, along with the driveshaft and cam.

FIG. 6 is a schematic view of the animal behavior modification device ofFIG. 1, shown with a pet dog and affixed to a pet dog collar. The deviceis within the housing of FIG. 3A. FIG. 6 shows a remote transmitter thatcommunicates with the device via manually actuated wireless signals.

FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the animal behavior modification device ofFIG. 1, shown with a pet dog and affixed to a pet dog collar. FIG. 7shows a remote stationary receiver that communicates with the device viawireless signals.

FIG. 8 is a schematic view of the animal behavior modification device ofFIG. 1, shown with a pet dog. FIG. 8 shows a remote stationary systemwith a microphone that senses the barking of a dog.

FIG. 9 is a schematic view of the animal behavior modification device ofFIG. 1, shown with a pet dog. FIG. 9 shows a remote stationary systemwith a motion detecting sensor and a spray canister.

FIG. 10 is a schematic view of the animal behavior modification deviceof FIG. 1, shown with a pet dog and affixed to a pet dog collar. FIG. 10also shows a stationary system with a motion detecting sensor. Here, thespray canister is associated with a dog collar.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS

Definitions

For purposes of the present disclosure, it is noted that spatiallyrelative terms, such as “up,” “down,” “right,” “left,” “beneath,”“below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper” and the like, may be used herein forease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship toanother element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It willbe understood that the spatially relative terms are intended toencompass different orientations of the device in use or operation inaddition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if thedevice in the figures is turned over or rotated, elements described as“below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented“above” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “below”can encompass both an orientation of above and below.

Description of Selected Specific Embodiments

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an animal behavior modification system ordevice 100 of the present invention, in one embodiment. A plurality ofcomponents for the device 100 are shown. In some embodiments, thecomponents are intended to reside on the collar of a dog. Anillustrative collar is shown at 600 in FIG. 6, placed around a pet 650.It is understood that the term “collar” may include a harness or othersimilar device.

Referring back to FIG. 1, the device 100 first includes a sensor 110.The sensor 110 may be any device that is responsive to the bark of thedog. In one embodiment, the sensor 110 is a piezoelectric vibrationsensor that is in contact with the dog for measuring vibrations producedby the dog. The piezoelectric sensor is a low current device used fordetecting the barking of a dog. In one aspect, the sensor 110 is placedin contact with the throat of the dog so as to measure vibrationsproduced by the vocal cords of the dog. Such an embodiment is describedin detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,668,760 entitled “Spray Control Anti-BarkCollar,” the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference inits entirety.

In a more preferred embodiment, the sensor 110 is a microphone. Themicrophone 110 is configured to receive sound frequencies emitted inproximity to the dog collar. In response, the microphone 110 generateselectrical signals.

The electrical signals from the microphone 110 are taken through aconditioning process. In one aspect, this includes amplification. Thus,the animal behavior modification device 100 may also include anamplifier 120. The amplifier 120 is coupled to the sensor 110 andamplifies the electrical signal output of the vibration (or sound)sensor 110 to increase the level of the sensor output for furtherprocessing and more accurate sampling.

The animal behavior modification device 100 optionally includes acircuit 130 for further signal conditioning of the electrical signaloutput of the amplifier 120. The signal conditioning circuit 130 servesto discriminate among the vibrations or sound frequencies measured bythe sensor 110 so as to pass only measured vibrations or frequenciesthat meet specified criteria. For example, the signal conditioningcircuit 130 may be configured to filter out frequencies not indicativeof the bark of a dog, or to pass only those vibrations signals occurringwithin a specified frequency range or those meeting certain durationallimits. The signal conditioning circuit 130 may be configured toeliminate unwanted output electrical signals from the sensor 110 output.Those skilled in the art will recognize the various filters, amplifiersand other signal conditioning devices that can be used to prepare themeasured frequencies or vibrations for further processing. Those skilledin the art will also recognize that the type of signal conditioningdepends upon the input signal, the corresponding sensor and the desiredcharacteristics of the input signal that are to be monitored. Forexample, the signal conditioning or filter may be active or passive andmay be set to pass a specific frequency range or to remove high or lowfrequency noise. Further, depending upon the various components used,the output signal may not require additional amplification. Finally,other conditioning may be required to present a useable sensor output tothe remainder of the circuit.

As part of the filtering process, a controller or processor 140 monitorsthe amplified output and activates a stimulus delivery mechanism 160. Inthe present invention, the stimulus delivery mechanism 160 is aso-called spray trainer. Decision-making logic within the processor 140determines whether a spray is needed through the actuation of thestimulus delivery mechanism 160. Typically, the input to the processor140 is compared against a reference value to determine whether aspray-type stimulus is warranted. A conventional processing device 140includes an internal timer, memory registers and math capabilitiesallowing sophisticated signal processing to occur; however, thoseskilled in the art will recognize that these capabilities can beachieved using other components without departing from the spirit andscope of the present invention, such as through firmware. Further, thoseskilled in the art will recognize that the electrical components useddepend on various factors including the cost of manufacture, size andweight constraints and the complexity of the decision process. Forexample, the size and weight of the training collar worn by the animalis reduced by implementing the controller in a single applicationspecific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a microprocessor, both of whichallow complex decision making capabilities. For lower cost, larger unitsimplementing a simple decision tree, or an array of discrete logiccomponents can be used.

In the illustrated embodiment for the animal behavior modificationdevice 100, the stimulus delivery mechanism 160 is a spray mechanismthat delivers a controlled dose of a bark deterrent substance or fluid.The spray delivery mechanism 160 includes a first canister (orcartridge, or tank) 162, a motor module 164 and a depressible sprayvalve or nozzle 166. The bark deterrent substance is held within thecanister 162 under pressure, and represents a solution that affects theolfactory (or other) senses of the dog.

The deterrent substance is selected to be irritating or disturbing tothe dog. A commonly used deterrent stimulus is a citronella liquid;however, those skilled in the art will recognize other deterrentsubstances that can be used without departing from the scope and spiritof the present invention, for example compressed air or water. Inaddition, those skilled in the art will recognize that the sound of thesubstance escaping under pressure provides a secondary deterrentfunction. Thus, in one aspect the animal behavior modification device100 also includes a speaker 610. The speaker 610 is associated with theprocessor 140, and is configured to emit a sound that emulates a sprayof fluid in response to conditioned electrical signals from the filterindicative of the bark of a dog. This is particularly useful if thecanister 162 becomes depleted of fluid. Alternatively, a micro-motor isprovided as element 610, which vibrates in response to receiving anactuation signal.

FIG. 2A is a schematic view of a single-stroke pet spray device 200A, inone embodiment. The pet spray device 200A includes a pressurizedcanister 210A. In this arrangement, the canister 210A has a cylindricalconfiguration and sealingly holds a behavior modification fluid such asa bark deterrent fluid.

The canister 210A has an upper end 211 and a lower end 214. The upperend 211 comprises a bell-shaped shoulder 212 fixedly connected to aspray nozzle 215. When the shoulder 212 is depressed, the bark deterrentfluid is released as a spray or mist from the canister 210A through thespray nozzle 215.

The pet spray device 200A also includes electrical circuitry, shownschematically as printed circuit board 220. The circuitry/board 220includes the sensor 110, the amplifier 120, the signal conditioning 130and the processor 140 of FIG. 1. The circuitry 220 may also, in someembodiments described further below, include a receiver. The receiver,shown in FIG. 1 at 155, is designed to receive an external actuationsignal.

The pet spray device 200A utilizes an electrical motor module 230. Themotor module 230 receives an electrical behavior modification signalfrom the circuitry 220 when a sound indicative of the bark of a dog ispicked up or sensed. This causes the motor module 230 to rotate a shaft235, which is mechanically engaged with a gear assembly (seen best at260 in FIG. 4A). The gear assembly 260 will include at least one gearconfigured to engage an elongated motor arm 250. The motor arm 250 maybe a rack portion of a rack and pinion type arrangement, which moveslinearly while being driven by the turning of the gear for a designatedperiod of time.

The pet spray device 200A also includes an actuation arm 255, as seen inFIG. 2A. The actuation arm 255 has a proximal end 251 and a distal end259. The proximal end 251 is pivotally connected to an upper end of themotor arm 250 while the distal end 259 is pivotally connected to ahousing (seen at 300 in FIGS. 4A and 4C). The actuation arm 255 isconnected to or otherwise passes along the shoulder 212 at the spraynozzle 215.

The pet spray device 200A further includes one or more batteries 240.The batteries 240 are configured to supply electrical power to thecomponents of the circuitry 220 and to the electric motor module 230. Inone aspect, the circuitry 220 includes a timer that controls the lengthof time the motor module 230 is actuated to turn the shaft 235.

In operation, a signal is sent from the electrical circuitry 220 to theelectric motor module 230. The signal may be sent in response to acondition being sensed by a sensor 110. In one aspect, the sensor 110 isan on-board microphone that detects the barking of the dog. In anotheraspect, the sensor is a microphone located in a separate (or remote)sensing unit. In still another aspect, the condition is the sensedmotion of a dog detected in a room that is considered off-limits to thedog. In this latter arrangement, the motion detector is again a separate(or remote) sensing unit. The remote sensing unit has a transmitter thatsends an actuation signal as discussed more fully below in connectionwith FIGS. 8, 9 and 10.

In any instance, upon receipt of the actuation signal, the motor module230 is activated for a designated period of time according to the timerof the electrical circuitry 220. Activation of the motor module 230rotates the shaft 235, which in turn rotates one or more gears in a gearassembly 260. An ultimate gear (shown in FIG. 4B at 262) engages theelongated motor arm 250, causing the motor arm 250 to move linearly. Inthe arrangement of FIG. 2A, the motor arm 250 is caused to move downrelative to the spray nozzle 215 upon the sensing of a bark by thesensor 110 and the resulting electronic signal sent to and processed bythe processor 140.

As noted, the upper end 254 of the elongated motor arm 250 is pivotallyconnected to the proximal end 251 of the actuation arm 255. Movement ofthe motor arm 250 downwardly causes the actuation arm 255 to engage theshoulder 212 at the spray nozzle 215, causing the spray nozzle 215 toalso move downwardly with respect to the canister 210A. This, in turn,releases a spray of the pressurized bark deterrent (or other behaviormodification) fluid from the nozzle 215. Thus, rotation of the shaft 235ultimately causes the spray nozzle 215 associated with the canister 210Ato be depressed, releasing a spray of behavior modification fluid underpressure.

FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional schematic view of another single-stroke petspray device 200B that utilizes an electrical motor module 230 to turn ashaft 235. The device 200B works in accordance with the device 200A ofFIG. 2A. In this respect, a sensor 110 is used to detect a conditionsuch as the barking of a dog or the movement of a dog. Upon sensing, anactuation signal is sent to cause the motor module 230 to rotate theshaft 235. This ultimately causes the spray nozzle 215 associated with acanister 210B to be depressed, releasing a spray of behaviormodification fluid under pressure.

In the arrangement of FIG. 2B, the canister 210B has a rectangular prismconfiguration. For pricing advantage, the canister 210B may be amodified cigarette lighter housing. Of course, the pressurized fluidinside the canister 210B would be a behavior modification fluid such asa bark deterrent fluid and not so-called lighter fluid.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an illustrative housing 300 as may beused to hold the device 200A or 200B of FIG. 2A or FIG. 2B,respectively. The housing 300 is preferably fabricated from alight-weight but durable polycarbonate material. The housing 300includes a front panel 310 that in one aspect is removable, such asthrough a clamshell or snap-on/snap-off arrangement or screws. Thehousing 300 may offer a power button 350 that enables the pet owner toturn the pet spray device 200A or 200B on and off. The housing 300 alsoincludes an opening 311 along an edge which is aligned with the nozzleto allow the spray from the nozzle 215 through the opening 311 uponactuation of the device.

The housing arrangement 300 of FIG. 3A is designed to be attached to acollar (such as collar 600 shown in FIGS. 6, 7 and 10) of a pet dog 650.To this end, the illustrative housing 300 offers opposing loops 320 withrespective through-openings 325. The through-openings 325 aredimensioned to receive the collar 600 to secure the housing 300 and petspray device (200A or 200B) to the animal. It is understood that forpurposes of the present disclosure, a collar includes a harness of anytype.

FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the housing 300 of FIG. 3A, wherein anaccess cover 330 is opened. In addition, a portion of the front panel310 of the housing 300 has been lifted off.

FIG. 3C is an enlarged perspective view of the housing 300 of FIG. 3A.In this view, the access cover 330 of the housing 300 remains open,revealing the canister slot 335. In addition, screws (not shown) havebeen loosened to partially remove or lift off a portion of the frontpanel 310.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of the interior of the housing 300 of FIG.3A. In this view, the front panel 310 has been completely removed toexpose internal components of the pet spray device 200B. Thesecomponents include an electric motor module 230, a gear assembly 260, anelongated motor arm 250 and an actuation arm 255. The canister 210B hasbeen removed and is not visible. It is further observed in FIG. 4A thatthe access cover 330 is closed covering a canister slot 335.

Of interest from the view of FIG. 4A, a linking pin 257 is visible. Asexplained more fully in connection with FIG. 4C, the linking pin 257enables a pivoting connection between the upper end 254 of the elongatedmotor arm 250 and the proximal end 251 of the actuation arm 255. At thesame time, the distal end 259 of the actuation arm 255 is pinned to thehousing 300 through pin 317.

The gear assembly 260 may include more than one gear, at least in thisarrangement. Thus, rotation of the shaft 235 causes a progression ofengaged gears to turn, ultimately moving the elongated motor arm 250 tomove linearly.

FIG. 4B is an enlarged perspective view of the electric motor module 230of the pet spray training system 300 of FIG. 4A, in one embodiment. Themotor arm 250 is visible along with the last gear 262. The gear 262engages the elongated motor arm 250. The motor arm 250 is held in placerelative to the motor module 230 by means of opposing clips 232. Theclips 232 secure the arm 250 laterally, but permit linear movement inthe up and down directions depending on rotational direction of theshaft 235 and gear 262. Alternatively, continued rotation of the gear262 in the same angular direction will cause the linear direction ofmovement of the elongated motor arm 250 to reverse in accordance withoperation of a rack-and-pinion assembly.

It is noted that in this arrangement, the elongated motor arm 250comprises two opposing legs 253. The legs 253 come together to form thelower end 252 and the upper end 254 of the arm 250. The linking pin 257is seen at the upper end 254 of each leg 253. It is further observedthat internal surfaces of the legs 253 have gear surfaces 256. The gearsurfaces 256 define teeth that receive the engaging gear 262 of the gearassembly 260. As such, the gear arrangement or assembly including themotor arm 250 is of a rack and pinion type arrangement.

FIG. 4C provides an enlarged perspective view of the housing of FIG. 4A.Here, the housing 300 is cut-away, exposing parts of the pet spraytraining system 200B of FIG. 2B. The spring 337 is seen positionedwithin the canister slot 335. The spring is configured to apply abiasing force upon the canister 210B to maintain its proper position andto insure proper actuation of the actuation arm 255 upon the nozzle 215.

The pet spray training system 200B relies upon an elongated pivotingactuation arm 255 that is momentarily pulled downward by the motor arm250. This pulling action momentarily depresses the nozzle 212 (seen inFIG. 2B) associated with the canister 210B. The motor arm 250, in turn,is driven linearly (up and down) by a rack-and-pinion type arrangementdriven by gears 260 (seen best in FIG. 4A). When the motor arm 250travels downward, the actuation arm 255 pivots downward upon the nozzle212, causing behavior modification fluid under pressure within thecanister 210B to be expelled through the opening 311. When the motor arm250 returns to its upward position, the actuation arm 255 pivots backupward, thereby releasing the nozzle 212 and shutting off thepressurized release of fluid.

It is observed that the same result, that is, momentary depression ofthe nozzle 212, may be accomplished by substituting the motor arm 250and the actuation arm 255 with a rotating cam. In this embodiment, therotating cam has a sinusoidal surface that acts against a transverseactuation arm. Thus, a rotational movement generated by a shaft againproduces a linear movement that acts upon the nozzle 212.

FIGS. 5A through 5C present a pet spray training system (or an animalbehavior modification device 500) in this alternate embodiment. In thisrespect, a cam 550 is provided having a cam surface 552. In addition, atransverse actuation arm 555 is employed to act against a spray nozzle515.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of the housing 300 of FIG. 3A, wherein afront panel 310 has again been removed. The pet spray training system500 (as an animal behavior modification device) is seen therein. Visiblein FIG. 5A is an electric motor module 530. The electric motor module530 operates off of battery power to drive a shaft 535. The electricmotor module includes a gear housing (seen at 532 in FIG. 5B) and amotor housing 534.

FIG. 5B is an enlarged perspective view of the electric motor module 530of FIG. 5A. Gear housing 532 and module wall 556 are shown. FIG. 5C isanother enlarged perspective view of the electric motor module 530 ofFIG. 5A. Here, the module wall 556 is removed, exposing the gears of agear assembly 560. FIG. 5D is a cross-sectional view of the electricmotor module of FIG. 5A. Selected gears are seen in cross-section, alongwith the drive shaft 535 and cam 550.

Referring to FIGS. 5B, 5C and 5D together, the shaft 535 turns a gear,which is part of the gear assembly 560. The gears within the gearassembly 560 have respective shafts anchored within a gear housing 532.As the shaft 535 is turned, the progression of gears within the gearassembly 560 are rotated. In the illustrative arrangement of the system500, the progression of gears represent a first gear 541, a second gear542, a third gear 543, a fourth gear 544, a fifth gear 545 and a sixthgear 546. The first gear 541 and the third gear 543 are connected by thedrive shaft 535, while the second gear 542 and the fourth gear 544 areconnected by a separate geared shaft 540. It is understood that thepresent invention is not limited by the number or arrangement of gearsused unless expressly so stated in the claims.

In the arrangement of FIG. 5D, the sixth gear 546 is integral to the cambody 550. Thus, as the gear 546 turns, the cam body 550 is also turned550. The cam body 550 has a cam surface 552. The cam surface 552 has asinusoidal profile. An actuation arm 555 resides along the cam surface552, but is connected to the canister 210B. Those of ordinary skill inthe intuitive arts will understand that as the cam 550 rotates with itscam surface 552, the actuation arm 555 will be cyclically depressed andreleased. Depression of the actuating arm 555 causes the shoulder 212 ofthe canister 210B to be depressed, momentarily releasing pressurizedbehavior modification fluid through the nozzle 215.

Based on the above description of the animal behavior modificationdevice 100 and electric motor modules 230, 530, methods for modifyingthe behavior of an animal is offered herein. In one embodiment, a methodfirst includes providing a spray training system. The spray trainingsystem may be arranged in accordance with any of the embodimentsdescribed above. Of interest, the spray training system will have acanister containing a pre-pressurized fluid. The spray training systemalso includes an electrical motor module configured to cause thepre-pressurized fluid to be released from the canister in response to anelectrical signal from a signal filter and processor (120, 130 and/or140).

The electric motor module comprises a drive shaft, and then one or moregears making up a gear assembly. Rotation of the shaft induces a turningof the gears within a gear assembly, which ultimately convertsrotational movement into a linear movement. The linear movement producesa momentary downward force to a shoulder associated with a spray nozzleon the canister.

In one embodiment, the linear movement is produced in a motor arm. Themotor arm, in turn, causes a pivoting actuation arm to depress the spraynozzle associated with the canister. This briefly releases a barkdeterrent fluid from the canister. Thereafter, the motor module reversesthe rotational direction of the shaft, causing the elongated motor armto reverse linear course and to return to its original position. This,in turn, pivots the actuation arm back to its resting position, whereinthe spray nozzle is closed and bark deterrent fluid is no longerreleased. Alternatively, the reversal of the motor module may beaccomplished through the contact and actuation of an electric switchpositioned in the path of the moving actuation arm. Alternatively still,the elongated arm is returned to its original position by continuing torotate the last gear 262 in accordance with a rack-and-pinionarrangement.

In another embodiment, the linear movement is produced by means of a cambody having a cam surface. Rotation of the cam surface against atransverse actuation arm associated with the spray nozzle causes acyclical depression of the nozzle. Note that this is not a pumpingaction.

The method next includes securing the animal behavior modificationdevice 100 to a collar. As noted above, a collar is shown at 600,affixed to a dog 650. Securing the device 100 to a collar 600 of a dog650 preferably comprises connecting the housing 300 to the collar 600.The device 100 is positioned so that as the stream of bark deterrentfluid is released from the spray nozzle 166, the fluid affects the dog'ssenses, such as smell. Of course, the collar 600 may represent a harnessas well.

In one aspect, the bark deterrent fluid comprises a solution that isoffensive to one or more senses of a dog. For example, the fluid maycontain a component that presents an offensive smell. In anotherexample, the fluid contains a component that temporarily stimulates thedog's senses of smell, hearing or touch. For example, the stimulant maybe a deterrent fluid that mildly irritates the dog's eyes or nose.

In one aspect, the animal behavior modification device 100 furthercomprises a speaker 610. The speaker 610 is configured to emit a soundthat emulates a spray of fluid. The sound is emitted in response toconditioned electrical signals from the signal conditioning 130indicative of the bark of a dog. In this instance, the sense will be thesense of hearing.

In one embodiment, the method also includes removing a first canister162 from the fluid intake when the bark deterrent fluid is substantiallyexhausted, and then replacing the canister with a second canister havingalso a bark deterrent fluid.

In one embodiment, the method further comprises adjusting the spraynozzle. Adjusting the spray nozzle may mean adjusting the nozzle tocreate a fine mist or, alternatively, a heavy fluid stream of the barkdeterrent fluid.

In one aspect, the animal behavior modification device 100 furthercomprises a remote transmitter (seen in FIG. 1 at 150) The remotetransmitter 150 is configured to send a wireless activation signal inresponse to manual actuation by a trainer or pet owner. The signal issent to a receiver 155 associated with the device 100.

FIG. 6 illustrates use of the animal behavior modification device 100 ofFIG. 1, with a remote transmitter. The remote transmitter 150 isintended to be held and used by an owner or trainer (not shown). In thisarrangement, the device 100 is shown secured to a collar 600 placedaround the neck of a dog 650.

In this instance, the device 100 will further include the receiver 155configured to receive wireless activation signals sent manually by theoperator of the remote transmitter 150, and in response generate anelectrical behavior modification signal. The signal activates the motormodule 164, which in turn activates the actuation arm that then releasespressurized fluid from the first canister 162. This, in turn, causes astream of the bark deterrent fluid to be released through the sprayvalve 166 and through the opening 515.

Button 152 is shown in FIG. 6, indicating a button 152 that may bepushed by the pet owner or trainer to manually and remotely actuate themotor module 164. Pushing button 152 sends a bark deterrent signal,which ultimately causes the canister 162 to emit the deterrent spraythrough the valve 166 and the through-opening 515.

In one embodiment, the animal behavior modification device 100 furthercomprises a second canister 168. The second canister 168 contains abehavior reinforcement fluid. The behavior reinforcement fluid comprisesa solution or otherwise contains a component that is pleasing to a dog'ssense of smell. The first canister 162 is removed from the housing 300,and the second canister 168 is installed in the slot 335.

In this instance, the device 100 may again include a remote transmitter150 configured to send a wireless activation signal in response tomanual actuation, and a receiver 155 configured to receive the wirelessactivation signal. Here, the wireless activation signal is a behaviorreinforcement signal. Pushing button 154 sends a behavior reinforcementsignal, which ultimately causes the spray mechanism 160 to emit thereinforcement spray through the nozzle or valve 166.

In response to the signal, an electrical behavior modification signal issent to the motor module 164. Here, the electrical motor 164 isconfigured to operate for a time to depress the spray nozzle 166 and torelease fluid pressurized from the second canister 168. This, in turn,causes a stream of the behavior reinforcement fluid to be releasedthrough the spray nozzle 166.

In one arrangement, each of the canisters (or tanks) 162, 168 isfabricated from a bio-degradable material, such as a bioplastic.Examples include cellulose esters, polybutylene succinate (PBS),polyanhydrides, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA's), lignin based plastics andpolylactic acid (PLA).

Variations of the method for modifying the behavior of an animal using abehavior modification device may fall within the spirit of the claims,below. For example, in one embodiment the pet training device may be setup as two different components, with one component housing the tank(s)162, 168 and associated motor module 164, and another component housingthe sound detection device and associated signal processing circuitry.

FIG. 7 illustrates a pet training device 700 in such an alternativeembodiment. Here, the pet training device 700 includes a remotetransmitter 701 housed separately and apart from the collar mountedspray device 702. The remote transmitter 701 includes a sound detector705, in the form of a microphone. The remote transmitter 701 isconfigured to send a wireless activation signal in response to thedetection of recognized frequencies characteristic of the bark of a dogor other designated sound. The wireless activation signal is received bythe collar mounted spray device 702, which then automatically actuatesthe electrical motor 164 to release fluid from the canister 162. This,in turn, causes a stream of the bark deterrent fluid to be automaticallyreleased through the spray nozzle 166. Thus, a person does not have tobe present to active the remote transmitter 701. Accordingly, the remotetransmitter may be placed in an area wherein the dog is taught not tobark such as a bedroom, office or nursery. At the same time, the dog'sbark does not activate the system should the barking occur outside therange of the remote transmitter.

In a related arrangement, all components of the pet spray trainingdevice are housed in a single remote housing that is apart from ananimal collar. FIG. 8 illustrates a pet training device 800 in such analternative embodiment. The pet training device 800 is separate andapart from the pet 650 to be trained and is therefore referenced hereinas stationary or free-standing even though it may be moved to differentlocations.

The device 800 is similar to the previously disclosed device 700 exceptthat it is not coupled to a collar worn by the pet 650. This is idealfor pets who do not wear a collar. Here, the device 800 includes a sounddetector 805 in the form of a microphone and filter. The microphone 805is configured to send an activation signal in response to the detectionof recognized frequencies characteristic of the bark of a dog or otherdesignated sound. The activation signal automatically actuates theelectrical motor 164 to depress a spray nozzle 166 associated with thecanister 162. This, in turn, causes a stream of the pressurized barkdeterrent fluid to be automatically released through the spray nozzle166. Thus, a person does not have to be present to activate the device800.

The device 800 may be placed in an area wherein the dog is taught not tobark. Examples again include a nursery or a bedroom. Other examplesinclude a kitchen, an office, a dining room or at the front door. Thedog's bark does not activate the system should the barking occur outsidethe range of the microphone 805. In the arrangement for the device 800,components are all held within a single housing 820.

In another embodiment, an animal behavior modification device in theform of a spray trainer may be used to deter a pet from entering anarea. The area may be, for example, a bed, a couch, a kitchen, a tabletop or an item of furniture. FIGS. 9 and 10 demonstrate embodiments ofsuch spray training devices.

First, FIG. 9 illustrates another pet training device 900 wherein thetraining device 900 is separate and apart from the pet 650 to betrained. Such a device is similar to device 800 of FIG. 7 in that it isportable and free-standing. In this instance, again, the pet 650 neednot wear a collar. The device 900 may be moved from room-to-room or evenpacked and taken with the owner in a car to a new location.

Instead of a sound detection device, the device 900 includes a motionsensor 901. The motion sensor 901 is configured to sense the proximityof the pet 650. The device again includes a housing 920 to which themotion sensor 901 is mounted. The motion sensor 901 sends an activationsignal in response to the detection of animal movement in the area ofthe device. The device 100 of FIG. 1 demonstrating a sensor 110 alongwith an optional amplifier 120, signal conditioner 130 and processor 140is applicable to a motion sensor and its resulting electrical signal.

The device also includes a canister 162. The canister 162 is againconfigured to hold a deterrent fluid at positive pressure. The deterrentfluid may include a fragrance or chemical that is offensive to one ormore senses of the pet. The canister 162 is further configured to resideon a surface, such as a table or a counter. In this embodiment, thedevice is not secured to the animal itself by means of a collar; rather,the device is free-standing and resides in the area from which the pet650 is to be deterred from entering.

The device additionally includes a motor module and a gear assembly aspreviously described. The motor module 164 is electrically coupled tothe motion sensor 110 and is in fluid communication with the canister.The motor module 164 depresses a spray nozzle 166 associated with acanister 162 for releasing, or discharging, a stream of the deterrentfluid in response to the electrical signals.

Ideally, the device 900 is placed in an area wherein the dog 650 istaught not to enter, while the dog's movement does not activate thedevice 900 outside the range of the motion detector 901. In this manner,the dog 650 is taught not to enter select areas of a home or otherspace.

FIG. 10 illustrates a pet training device 1000 in a related alternativeembodiment. Here, the device 1000 again includes a motion detector 1005.The pet training device 1000 also includes a remote transmitter 1001.The motion detector 1005 and the transmitter 1001 are housed separatelyand apart from the collar 600 with the mounted spray device 1002. Ahousing for the motion detector 1005 and the transmitter 1001 is shownat 1020.

In operation, the remote transmitter 1001 sends a wireless activationsignal in response to the detection of pet movement by the motion sensor1005. The wireless activation signal is received by the collar mountedspray device 1002 which then automatically actuates the electrical motorto activate a motor module 164 for a period of time and cause a spraynozzle 166 associated with the canister 162 to be depressed. The periodof time may be, for example, 1 to 5 seconds, or 2 to 3 seconds. This, inturn, causes an emission of the deterrent fluid through the spray nozzle166 associated with the collar 600. Thus, a person does not have to bepresent to active the remote transmitter 1001. Accordingly, the remotetransmitter may be placed in an area wherein the dog is taught not toenter, while the dog's movement does not activate the device 1002 shouldthe movement occur outside the range of the remote transmitter 1001. Inthis manner, the dog 650 is taught not to enter only select areas of ahome.

In one aspect of the pet training device 1000, either the housing 1020or the collar 600 includes a speaker (shown at 610 in FIG. 1). Thespeaker 610 may emit ultrasonic sound waves audible only to the dog 650.The sound waves serve as a bark deterrent. Alternatively, the speaker610 simulates the sound of the spray nozzle to elicit a Pavlovianstopping of the barking.

It will be appreciated that the inventions are susceptible tomodification, variation and change without departing from the spiritthereof.

We claim:
 1. An animal behavior modification device, comprising: asensor configured to receive input, and in response thereto generateelectrical output signals; an electrical circuit which processes theelectrical output signals to determine whether the sensor input ischaracteristic of the bark of a dog, and in response to a dog barkdetermination, emits an actuation signal; a motor module electricallycoupled to the electrical circuit and configured to rotate a shaft inresponse to receiving the actuation signal; at least one gear coupled tothe shaft; a first canister configured to hold a bark deterrent fluidunder pressure, an actuation arm movable in response to rotation of theshaft, wherein rotation of the shaft generates rotational movement inthe at least one gear, which in turn generates linear movement orangular movement in the at least one mechanical arm to cause a momentaryrelease of the fluid from the first canister; a battery arranged toprovide power to the motor module, the sensor, and the electricalcircuit; and a housing holding at least the sensor, the electricalcircuit, the first canister, the actuation arm, the motor module and thebattery, and with the housing being configured to be coupled to a collarof a dog.
 2. The animal behavior modification device of claim 1, whereinthe at least one gear comprises a gear assembly comprising a series ofgears having teeth.
 3. The animal behavior modification device of claim2, wherein the bark deterrent fluid comprises a solution that isoffensive to one or more senses of a dog.
 4. The animal behaviormodification device of claim 2, wherein: the device further comprises anelongated motor arm coupled to a drive gear of the gear assembly,wherein rotation of the drive gear produces linear movement of theelongated motor arm; and the actuation arm is pivotally connected to theelongated motor arm and configured to depress the spray nozzle when theelongated motor arm is moved in a first linear direction, therebyreleasing bark deterrent fluid from the first canister.
 5. The animalbehavior modification device of claim 4, wherein: the actuation arm isfurther configured to release the spray nozzle when the motor module isactuated in a second opposite linear direction, thereby stopping therelease of bark deterrent fluid from the first canister.
 6. The animalbehavior modification device of claim 5, wherein: the elongated motorarm and the drive gear form a rack-and-pinion assembly; and theactuation arm is further configured to release the spray nozzle when themotor module is actuated for a sufficient period of time to cause theelongated motor arm to travel in a second opposite linear direction,thereby stopping the release of bark deterrent fluid from the firstcanister.
 7. The animal behavior modification device of claim 2,wherein: the device further comprises a cam body having a cam surface;the cam is integral to or is coupled to a last gear of the gearassembly; and wherein the actuation arm is configured to ride along thecam surface such that the actuation arm is cyclically depressed andreleased as the cam body is rotated, wherein depressing the actuationarm causes the nozzle to be depressed, thereby releasing bark deterrentfluid from the first canister until the actuation arm is raised again 8.The animal behavior modification device of claim 2, further comprising:(i) a speaker configured to emit a sound that precedes, is synchronouswith, or that follows actuation of the actuation arm; or (ii) amicro-motor configured to vibrate during movement of the actuation arm.9. The animal behavior modification device of claim 2, wherein thehousing comprises: a spray opening in the housing aligned with the spraynozzle through which the deterrent fluid is emitted when the actuationarm is activated to engage the nozzle.
 10. The animal behaviormodification device of claim 9, wherein the housing further comprises: aslot for receiving the first canister; an access cover configured toexpose the slot when the cover is pivotally opened, enabling removal ofthe first canister; and at least one loop configured to be secured tothe collar of a dog.
 11. The animal behavior modification device ofclaim 9, further comprising: a remote transmitter configured to send awireless activation signal in response to manual actuation of the remotetransmitter; and a receiver electrically coupled to the motor moduleconfigured to receive the wireless activation signal, and in responsegenerate an electrical behavior modification signal; wherein the motormodule is configured to rotate the shaft for the designated period oftime in response to the electrical behavioral modification signal fromthe receiver, and cause a stream of the bark deterrent fluid to bereleased through the spray nozzle.
 12. The animal behavior modificationdevice of claim 11, further comprising: a second canister containing abehavior reinforcement fluid, wherein the behavior reinforcement fluidcomprises a solution that is pleasing to a dog's sense of smell; and thehousing is configured to allow replacement of the first canister withthe second canister through an access cover disposed along the housing.13. The animal behavior modification device of claim 2, wherein: thefirst canister is fabricated from a bio-degradable material; and thesensor is a sound or vibration detection device.
 14. A method formodifying the behavior of an animal, comprising the steps of: providingan animal behavior modification device comprising: a sensor tuned toreceive sound frequencies, and in response to generate electricalsignals, a filter which conditions the electrical signals from thesensor, a first canister holding a bark deterrent fluid under pressure,a motor module electrically coupled to the filter and configured torotate a shaft for a designated period of time in response to receivingconditioned electrical signals from the filter indicative of the bark ofa dog; at least one gear operatively connected to the shaft; a spraynozzle associated with the first canister; an actuation arm movable inresponse to rotation of the shaft, wherein rotation of the shaftgenerates rotational movement in the at least one gear, which in turngenerates linear movement in the actuation arm to cause a momentaryrelease of the pressurized fluid from the first canister; a batteryarranged to provide power to the motor module and to electricalcircuitry associated with the filter; and a housing for holding at leastthe sensor, the filter, the first canister, the actuation arm, the motormodule and the battery; securing the housing to a collar of a dog; andactivating the motor module and shaft in response to the sensing of abark from the dog, thereby causing bark deterrent fluid to be releasedfor the designated period of time and to be sensed by the dog.
 15. Themethod of claim 14, wherein: the animal behavior modification devicefurther includes a speaker configured to emit a sound that emulates aspray of fluid; and the sound is emitted in response to the conditionedelectrical signals from the filter indicative of the bark of a dog. 16.The method of claim 14, further comprising: replacing the first canisterwith a second canister, wherein the second canister contains a behaviorreinforcement fluid also under pressure.
 17. The method of claim 14,further comprising the steps of: removing the first canister when thebark deterrent fluid is substantially exhausted; and replacing the firstcanister with a second canister that contains a bark deterrent fluidalso under pressure.
 18. The method of claim 14, wherein: the at leastone gear comprises a gear assembly comprising a series of gears havingteeth; and the bark deterrent fluid comprises a solution that isoffensive to one or more senses of a dog.
 19. The method of claim 18,wherein: the device further comprises an elongated motor arm coupled toa drive gear of the gear assembly, wherein rotation of the drive gearproduces linear movement of the motor arm; and the actuation arm ispivotally connected to the elongated motor arm and configured to depressthe spray nozzle when the elongated motor arm is moved in a first lineardirection, thereby releasing bark deterrent fluid from the firstcanister under pressure.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein: theactuation arm is further configured to release the spray nozzle when themotor module is actuated in a second opposite linear direction, therebystopping the release of bark deterrent fluid from the first canisterunder pressure.
 21. The method of claim 20, wherein: the elongated motorarm and the gear form a rack-and-pinion assembly; and the elongatedmotor arm is caused to move in the second linear direction by continuedrotation of the drive gear beyond the period of time.
 22. The method ofclaim 20, wherein: the elongated motor arm is a rack type gear driveconfigured to mesh with the gear; and the elongated motor arm is causedto move in the second linear direction when rotation of a drive gear ofthe gear assembly is reversed.
 23. The animal behavior modificationdevice of claim 18, wherein: the device further comprises a cam bodyhaving a cam surface; the cam is integral to or is coupled to a lastgear of the gear assembly; and the actuation arm is configured to ridealong the cam surface such that the actuation arm is cyclicallydepressed and released as the cam body is rotated, wherein depressingthe actuation arm causes the nozzle to be depressed, thereby releasingbark deterrent fluid from the first canister under pressure until theactuation arm is raised again.
 24. The method of claim 14, wherein: theanimal behavior modification device further includes: a remotetransmitter configured to send a wireless bark deterrent signal inresponse to manual actuation; and a receiver coupled to the motor moduleconfigured to receive the wireless bark deterrent signal, and inresponse generate the electrical behavior modification signal; andwherein the motor module is configured to rotate the shaft for thedesignated period of time in response to the electrical behavioralmodification signal from the receiver, and cause a stream of the barkdeterrent fluid to be released through the spray nozzle.
 25. The methodof claim 24, wherein: the animal behavior modification device furthercomprises: a second canister containing a behavior reinforcement fluid,wherein the behavior reinforcement fluid comprises a solution that ispleasing to a dog's sense of smell; the remote transmitter is furtherconfigured to send a wireless behavior reinforcement signal in responseto manual actuation; and the receiver is further configured to receivethe behavior reinforcement signal, and in response generate anelectrical behavior reinforcement signal; wherein the electrical motorrotates the shaft for the designated period of time in response to theelectrical behavior reinforcement signal from the receiver to cause aspray of the behavior reinforcement fluid to be released through thespray nozzle of the second canister.
 26. An animal behavior modificationdevice comprising: a hand-operated transmitter adapted to transmit anactuation signal; a housing configured to reside on the collar of acanine a receiver residing along the housing and adapted to receive theactuation signal from the transmitter, and then generate an electricalactivation signal in response; a pressurized fluid cartridge residingwithin the housing, and containing a bark deterrent fluid, the fluidcartridge having a spray nozzle; a motor module electrically coupled tothe receiver and also residing within the housing, the motor modulebeing activated upon receiving the activation signal from the receiverto rotate a motor shaft; an actuation arm operatively coupled to themotor shaft through a gear assembly such that rotation of the motorshaft and associated gear assembly for a period of time generatesmomentary linear movement of the actuation arm, whereby the actuationarm engages the pressurized fluid cartridge to release the barkdeterrent fluid through the spray nozzle; and a battery electricallycoupled to the motor module.
 27. The animal behavior modification deviceof claim 26, further comprising: a through-opening in the housingaligned with the nozzle for accommodating the release of the barkdeterrent fluid.
 28. The animal behavior modification device of claim27, further comprising: a drive gear operatively coupled to the motorshaft as part of the gear assembly; and an elongated motor arm in theform of a rack-type gear configured to mesh with the drive gear, theelongated motor arm moving linearly in response to rotation of the drivegear; and wherein the actuation arm is pivotally coupled to theelongated motor arm for pivotal movement resulting from the linearmovement of the elongated motor arm, and configured to depress the spraynozzle when the motor module is actuated, thereby releasing thepressurized bark deterrent fluid through the nozzle under pressure. 29.The animal behavior modification device of claim 28, wherein: theactuation arm is configured to depress the spray nozzle when theelectrical motor is actuated in a first linear direction to release thebark deterrent fluid; and the actuation arm is further configured torelease the spray nozzle when the elongated motor arm is actuated in asecond linear direction opposite the first linear direction to close offthe release of bark deterrent fluid.
 30. The animal behaviormodification device of claim 29, wherein: the elongated motor arm is arack-and-pinion type gear drive configured to mesh with the drive gear;and the elongated motor arm is caused to move in the second lineardirection by continued rotation of the drive gear beyond the period oftime.
 31. The animal behavior modification device of claim 27, furthercomprising: a drive gear operatively coupled to the motor shaft as partof the gear assembly; and the device further comprises a cam body havinga cam surface; the cam is integral to or is coupled to a last gear ofthe gear assembly; wherein the actuation arm is configured to ride alongthe cam surface such that the actuation arm is cyclically depressed andreleased as the cam body is rotated, wherein depressing the actuationarm causes the nozzle to be depressed, thereby releasing bark deterrentfluid from the first canister under pressure until the actuation arm israised again.
 32. A device for deterring a pet from entering an area,the device comprising: a housing configured to reside on a surface; amotion sensor coupled to the housing and configured to sense theproximity of the pet, and in response thereto transmit an actuationsignal; a canister residing within the housing and configured to hold abark deterrent fluid under pressure, and to release the bark deterrentfluid through a depressible spray nozzle; a motor module electricallycoupled to the motion sensor, the motor module including a motor havinga motor shaft operatively coupled to a drive gear, the motor modulebeing activated upon receiving the actuation signal from the motionsensor to rotate the motor shaft and drive gear for a designated periodof time; an actuation arm movable in response to rotation of the motorshaft and drive gear, wherein rotation of the shaft generates rotationalmovement in the drive gear, which in turn generates linear movement inthe actuation arm to cause a momentary release of the pressurized fluidfrom the canister through the depressible spray nozzle; and a batteryenergizing the motor module.
 33. The device of claim 32, wherein: thedrive gear is part of a gear assembly comprising a series of gears; thedevice further comprises an elongated motor arm coupled to the drivegear, wherein rotation of the drive gear produces linear movement of themotor arm; and the actuation arm is pivotally connected to the elongatedmotor arm and configured to depress the spray nozzle when the elongatedmotor arm is moved in a first linear direction, thereby releasing barkdeterrent fluid from the canister.
 34. The device of claim 33, wherein:the elongated motor arm and the gear form a rack-and-pinion assembly;and the elongated motor arm is caused to move in the second lineardirection by continued rotation of the drive gear beyond the period oftime.
 35. The device of claim 33, wherein: the elongated motor arm is arack type gear drive configured to mesh with the gear; the elongatedmotor arm is caused to move in the second linear direction when rotationof a drive gear of the gear assembly is reversed.
 36. The device ofclaim 32, wherein: the at least one gear comprises a gear assemblycomprising a series of gears having teeth; the device further comprisesa cam body having a cam surface; the cam is integral to or is coupled toa last gear of the gear assembly; and the actuation arm is configured toride along the cam surface such that the actuation arm is cyclicallydepressed and released as the cam body is rotated, wherein depressingthe actuation arm causes the nozzle to be depressed, thereby releasingbark deterrent fluid from the first canister under pressure until theactuation arm is raised again.
 37. The device of claim 32, wherein thehousing comprises: a spray opening through which the deterrent fluid isemitted when the actuation arm is activated; and a slot for receivingthe first canister, wherein the spray nozzle aligns with the sprayopening.
 38. A spray training device for deterring a pet from enteringan area, the device comprising: a motion sensor configured to sensemovement of a dog, and in response to sensing movement to generateactuation signals; a transmitter electrically coupled to the motionsensor and adapted to transmit the actuation signals; a first housingconfigured to hold the motion sensor and transmitter; a fluid canisterconfigured to hold a deterrent fluid under pressure, the canisterincluding a depressible spray nozzle; a motor module electricallycoupled to the filter and configured to rotate a shaft for a designatedperiod of time in response to the actuation signals, the rotation of theshaft causing the actuation of the spray nozzle to release the deterrentfluid under pressure; a spray nozzle associated with the canister andconfigured to release a stream of the deterrent fluid from the canisterwhen the motor module and connected shaft are activated; a receiverelectrically coupled to the motor module and adapted to receive theactuation signals from the transmitter; at least one gear coupled to theshaft; an actuation arm movable in response to rotation of the shaft,wherein rotation of the shaft generates rotational movement in the atleast one gear, which in turn generates linear movement in the actuationarm to cause a momentary release of the pressurized fluid from the firstcanister; and a second housing separate and apart from the first housingconfigured to be connected to a collar of the dog, the second housingbeing configured to hold the fluid canister, the motor module, actuationarm, the spray nozzle and the receiver.
 39. The spray training device ofclaim 38, wherein: the at least one gear is part of a gear assemblycomprising a series of gears having teeth; the device further comprisesan elongated motor arm coupled to a drive gear of the gear assembly,wherein rotation of the drive gear produces linear movement of the motorarm; and the actuation arm is pivotally connected to the elongated motorarm and configured to depress the spray nozzle when the elongated motorarm is moved in a first linear direction, thereby releasing deterrentfluid from the canister under pressure.
 40. The method of claim 39,wherein: the actuation arm is further configured to release the spraynozzle when the motor module is actuated in a second opposite lineardirection, thereby stopping the release of deterrent fluid from thecanister.
 41. The method of claim 40, wherein: the elongated motor armand the gear form a rack-and-pinion assembly; and the elongated motorarm is caused to move in the second linear direction by continuedrotation of the drive gear beyond the period of time.
 42. The method ofclaim 40, wherein: the elongated motor arm is a rack type gear driveconfigured to mesh with the gear; and the elongated motor arm is causedto move in the second linear direction when rotation of a drive gear ofthe gear assembly is reversed.
 43. The animal behavior modificationdevice of claim 38, wherein: the at least one gear is part of a gearassembly comprising a series of gears having teeth; the device furthercomprises a cam body having a cam surface; the cam is integral to or iscoupled to a last gear of the gear assembly; and the actuation arm isconfigured to ride along the cam surface such that the actuation arm iscyclically depressed and released as the cam body is rotated, whereindepressing the actuation arm causes the nozzle to be depressed, therebyreleasing deterrent fluid from the canister under pressure until theactuation arm is raised again.
 44. A spray training device for deterringa dog from barking in a selected area, the device comprising: a soundsensor configured to receive sound frequencies, and in response theretogenerate electrical signals; a filter which conditions the electricalsignals from the sound sensor to recognize frequencies characteristic ofthe bark of a dog and to generate actuation signals; a canisterconfigured to hold a bark deterrent fluid under pressure; a motor moduleelectrically coupled to the filter and configured to rotate a shaft fora designated period of time in response to the actuation signals; aspray nozzle associated with the canister and configured to release astream of the bark deterrent fluid from the canister when the electricalmotor and connected shaft are activated for the designated period oftime; at least one gear coupled to the shaft; an actuation arm movablein response to rotation of the shaft, wherein rotation of the shaftgenerates rotational movement in the at least one gear, which in turngenerates linear movement in the actuation arm to cause a momentaryrelease of the pressurized fluid from the first canister; and a batteryarranged to provide power to the electrical motor module and tocircuitry associated with the filter; and a portable housing configuredto reside on a surface within a home or office, the housing containingthe sound sensor, the filter, the canister, the motor module, the spraynozzle, the gear, the actuation arm and the battery.
 45. The spraytraining device of claim 44, further comprising: (i) a speakerconfigured to emit an ultrasonic sound audible to the dog also inresponse to the actuation signals, or (ii) a micro-motor configured tovibrate in response to the actuation signals.
 46. The spray trainingdevice of claim 44, wherein: the actuation arm is configured to depressthe spray nozzle when the electrical motor is actuated in a first lineardirection, thereby releasing bark deterrent fluid under pressure; andthe actuation arm is further configured to release the spray nozzle whenthe electrical motor is actuated in a second linear direction oppositethe first linear direction, thereby closing off the release of barkdeterrent fluid.
 47. The spray training device of claim 46, wherein: theat least one gear is part of a gear assembly comprising a series ofgears having teeth; the device further comprises a cam body having a camsurface; the cam is integral to or is coupled to a last gear of the gearassembly; and the actuation arm is configured to ride along the camsurface such that the actuation arm is cyclically depressed and releasedas the cam body is rotated, wherein depressing the actuation arm causesthe nozzle to be depressed, thereby releasing bark deterrent fluid fromthe canister under pressure until the actuation arm is raised again. 48.A method for modifying the behavior of an animal, comprising the stepsof: providing a portable animal behavior modification device comprising:a motion sensor configured to sense movement of the pet, and in responseto sensing movement to generate actuation signals; a canister configuredto hold a deterrent fluid under pressure, and to release the deterrentfluid through a depressible spray nozzle; a motor module electricallycoupled to the motion sensor, the motor module including an electricmotor having a motor shaft operatively coupled to a drive gear, themotor module being activated upon receiving the actuation signals fromthe motion sensor to rotate the motor shaft and drive gear for adesignated period of time; an actuation arm movable in response torotation of the motor shaft and drive gear, wherein rotation of theshaft generates rotational movement in the drive gear, which in turngenerates linear movement in the actuation arm to cause a momentaryrelease of the pressurized fluid from the canister through thedepressible spray nozzle; and a battery arranged to provide power to theelectrical motor module; and placing the motion sensor in an area of ahome or office where a pet is to be prevented from entering.
 49. Themethod of claim 48, wherein the animal behavior modification devicefurther includes: a transmitter adapted to transmit an actuation signal;a receiver adapted to receive the actuation signal from the transmitter;a first housing, wherein the first housing holds the motion sensor andthe transmitter; and a second housing, wherein the second housing holdsthe receiver, the canister, the motor module, the spray nozzle, theactuation arm and the battery, and is configured to be coupled to thecollar of the pet.
 50. The method of claim 48, wherein the animalbehavior modification device further comprises: a housing configured torest upon a surface and contain the motion sensor, the canister, themotor module, the spray nozzle, the actuation arm and the battery. 51.The method of claim 50, wherein the housing comprises: a spray openingthrough which the deterrent fluid is emitted when the actuation arm isactivated; and a slot for receiving the canister, wherein the spraynozzle aligns with the spray opening.
 52. The method of claim 51,wherein the housing further comprises: an access cover configured toexpose the slot when the cover is pivotally opened, enabling removal ofthe first canister; and at least one loop configured to be secured tothe collar.
 53. The method of claim 48, wherein: the drive gear is partof a gear assembly comprising a series of gears; the device furthercomprises an elongated motor arm coupled to the drive gear, whereinrotation of the drive gear produces linear movement of the motor arm;the actuation arm is pivotally connected to the elongated motor arm andconfigured to depress the spray nozzle when the elongated motor arm ismoved in a first linear direction, thereby releasing bark deterrentfluid from the canister under pressure; and the actuation arm is furtherconfigured to release the spray nozzle when the electrical motor isactuated in a second linear direction opposite the first lineardirection, thereby closing off the release of bark deterrent fluid. 54.The device of claim 53, wherein: the elongated motor arm and the gearform a rack-and-pinion assembly; and the elongated motor arm is causedto move in the second linear direction by continued rotation of thedrive gear beyond the period of time.
 55. The device of claim 53,wherein: the elongated motor arm is a rack type gear drive configured tomesh with the gear; the elongated motor arm is caused to move in thesecond linear direction when rotation of a drive gear of the gearassembly is reversed.
 56. The device of claim 48, wherein: the at leastone gear is part of a gear assembly comprising a series of gears havingteeth; the device further comprises a cam body having a cam surface; thecam is integral to or is coupled to a last gear of the gear assembly;and the actuation arm is configured to ride along the cam surface suchthat the actuation arm is cyclically depressed and released as the cambody is rotated, wherein depressing the actuation arm causes the nozzleto be depressed, thereby releasing bark deterrent fluid from the firstcanister under pressure until the actuation arm is raised again.
 57. Aspray training device for deterring a dog from entering an area, thedevice comprising: a sound sensor configured to sense barking sounds ofthe dog, and in response to sensing barks of the dog to generateactuation signals; a transmitter electrically coupled to the soundsensor and adapted to transmit an actuation signal; a first housingconfigured to reside within a home or office and to receive the soundsensor and the transmitter; and a replaceable canister configured tohold a bark deterrent fluid under pressure; a spray nozzle associatedwith the cartridge and configured to release a stream of the barkdeterrent fluid when the electrical motor and connected shaft areactivated; a receiver electrically coupled to the motor module andadapted to receive the actuation signal from the transmitter, and togenerate; a motor module electrically coupled to the receiver, the motormodule including an electric motor having a motor shaft operativelycoupled to a drive gear, the motor module being activated upon receivingthe actuation signals from the sound sensor to rotate the motor shaftand drive gear for a designated period of time; a spray nozzleassociated with the canister and configured to release a stream of thedeterrent fluid from the canister when the motor module and connectedshaft are activated; a receiver electrically coupled to the motor moduleand adapted to receive the actuation signals from the transmitter; atleast one gear coupled to the shaft; an actuation arm movable inresponse to rotation of the motor shaft and drive gear, wherein rotationof the shaft generates rotational movement in the drive gear, which inturn generates linear movement in the actuation arm to cause a momentaryrelease of the pressurized fluid from the canister through thedepressible spray nozzle; and a battery arranged to provide power to theelectrical motor module; and a second housing separate and apart fromthe first housing configured to be secured to a collar of the dog, thesecond housing being configured to hold the fluid canister, the motormodule, the actuation arm, the spray nozzle, the battery and thereceiver.
 58. The spray training device of claim 57, wherein: the drivegear is part of a gear assembly comprising a series of gears; the secondhousing further holds an elongated motor arm coupled to the drive gear,wherein rotation of the drive gear produces linear movement of the motorarm; the actuation arm is pivotally connected to the elongated motor armand configured to depress the spray nozzle when the elongated motor armis moved in a first linear direction, thereby releasing bark deterrentfluid from the canister under pressure; and the actuation arm is furtherconfigured to release the spray nozzle when the electrical motor isactuated in a second linear direction opposite the first lineardirection, thereby closing off the release of bark deterrent fluid. 59.The device of claim 58, wherein: the elongated motor arm and the gearform a rack-and-pinion assembly; and the elongated motor arm is causedto move in the second linear direction by continued rotation of thedrive gear beyond the period of time.
 60. The device of claim 58,wherein: the elongated motor arm is a rack type gear drive configured tomesh with the gear; the elongated motor arm is caused to move in thesecond linear direction when rotation of a drive gear of the gearassembly is reversed.
 61. The device of claim 57, wherein: the at leastone gear is part of a gear assembly comprising a series of gears havingteeth; the device further comprises a cam body having a cam surface; thecam is integral to or is coupled to a last gear of the gear assembly;and the actuation arm is configured to ride along the cam surface suchthat the actuation arm is cyclically depressed and released as the cambody is rotated, wherein depressing the actuation arm causes the nozzleto be depressed, thereby releasing bark deterrent fluid from the firstcanister under pressure until the actuation arm is raised again.